Today we’d like to introduce you to Nick Heyward.
Hi Nick, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have shared the story of Cornerstone Fellowship in previous interviews, but I would like to take this opportunity to share our most recent accomplishment. Shortly before the launch of Cornerstone Fellowship in August of 2022, Pastor Victor Barnwell of New Covenant Christian Fellowship entered into covenant with us. Since this was a totally new endeavour for me Pastor Barnwell’s spiritual support and accountability were greatly appreciated. As the ministries entered into covenant together United Christian Fellowship was formed. The two ministries celebrate annually either in Texas or South Carolina. United Christian Fellowship birthed Real Talk, a bi-weekly call where Pastor Barnwell discusses relevant issues that people may be afraid to mention in the traditional church setting. This call is supported by ministries and individuals all over the world.
This is just the beginning and we are excited about all the great things that are yet to come.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey with Cornerstone Fellowship has not been easy, but the growth I have experienced has been greatly appreciated. My biggest takeaway has been to realize that I was the biggest obstacle in my journey. The odds have not been stacked in my corner from the beginning. I am an African American male that grew up in a small town, I come from a single parent home, and I was not athletic. I learned early on that I had to give 150% and understood that may still not be enough. When I accepted the call for ministry the public was very vocal about what a pastor should look like and sound like. I didn’t add up to their expectation. I have had a few failed relationships, I have tattoos, a DUI conviction, and I have lived my life to the fullest for all to see. For many years I tried to hide my past and failures. I was on the verge of compromising what God instructed me to do for the ministry to gain the acceptance of individuals that really were not relevant to my purpose. I prayed, trusted God, and remembered that my scars were not to be hidden but shared with the world. All of my scars prove to the world that no matter what failures you have had, God’s grace is sufficient. My scars remind me that God does not called the equipped, but He always equips those He has called.
My obstacles stregnthened me and my scars enhanced my testimony.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am the Visionary of Cornerstone Fellowship. There are many levels to what I do for myself, the church, and the community. I have grown into a disciplined individual that has learned that people are always watching even when they are not supporting. For myself, I am an ambassador for Christ. People will not always come to church to hear the message, but people will watch how I live my life, and my life has to be a reflection of what I preach. How I treat others, how I care for my mental health, and how I contribute to my community speak louder than any message I will ever preach. For the church, I am committed to remind the parishioners that Cornerstone Fellowship is a hospital for those that are hurting and not a monument to the saints. When people come to Cornerstone I want them to heal and realize that God and his work are what are important.
For the community I pledge to be a place that inspires hope for everyone. Cornerstone stands as proof that great things come from the Low Country.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love that I grew up in the Low Country of South Carolina. There is a vibrant culture in the Low Country, and everyone displays true Southern hospitality.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.plmcornerstone.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085182287435&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-heyward-10988443
- Twitter: https://x.com/prophesiedlega1
- Youtube: @plmcornerstone4215
